AFL Victoria Herald Sun Shield Launch

Thursday, June 05, 2014

On Wednesday 4th of June, AFL Victoria kicked off the Herald Sun Shield in style, with holding a launch in the Lindsay Hassett room at the MCG. About 70 people where there to witness the event which included SSA executive officers, head of school sports teachers and school football captains.

Guest speakers Trent Cotchin (Richmond Football Club Captain), Aasta O’Connor (Female Western Bulldogs Captain) and Kevin Sheehan (AFL Talent Manger), where present and shared their stories and thoughts on the current game of Australian Football. Kevin Sheehan did an insightful interview on each of the AFL stars, where the two players shared their thoughts on the Herald Sun Senior Shields, the current game of AFL and what their journey was like that got them to where they are now. A highlights video was shown on both players, past and present, which showed their talent and skill of the game.

Trent Cotchin played in the Herald Sun Shield six years ago for the Penleigh Essendon Grammar where he reflected on those experiences/ memories and explained how important it is to enjoy your football within these competitions. Trent has now gone on to achieve the following; Jack Dyer medal 2011, 2012, the Leigh Matthews AFL coaches’ association best player in 2012 and the title of Richmond Football Club Captain. Aasta O’Connor has done many things in women’s football and achieved the following; 5 times All Australian, 4 time premiership player for Logan Cobras, Premiership player with Darebin Falcons, Best and Fairest in the VWFL, and the title of Western Bulldogs captain in 2013. Kevin Sheehan explained to the people involved how exciting it is for young people to take stepping stones into higher levels of football while managing year twelve and other various things.

Afterwards each school captain where asked to change into their game day attire for a photo on the MCG with Trent Cotchin and Aasta O’Connor to help promote the Herald Sun Shield which would be printed into the Herald Sun in the upcoming weeks. All school captains where very cooperative and we thank them for their contribution.

The Herald Sun Shield Launch was a celebration of all the football competitions and increased participation since 1977.

A very special thanks to all involved and to our special guest speakers Trent Cotchin, Kevin Sheehan and Aasta O’Connell.